The report describes a model for establishing a small store to be operated by fashion merchandising students for academic credit within a post-secondary school program. It is intended to bridge the gap between graduation and employment by offering the student a hands-on retailing and merchandising experience during school hours before graduation. It also offers practical and varied learning experiences to the disadvantaged student and presents the challenges of management responsibility. The major sections included in the report are: (1) research methodology, survey results, and recommendations; (2) the instructor's planning responsibilities and additional considerations in establishing the course; (3) guidelines for the student manager; (4) plan for the operation of the store; (5) benefits of the small store course to students and staff; (6) potential problems; (7) a glossary; and (8) appended materials. Included in the appendix are: the research instrument, student survey, course outline, change-making exercise, sales incentive notices, store manager job description, store policies, and 18 typical retail business forms. (MW)